Re: Navigating the AMAZON
Posted: Fri Dec 29, 2023 10:10 am
We have an Amazon Prime membership and it has definitely changed the way I shop. Amazon has become my go-to source for nuts, bolts, and other hardware that the big box hardware stores don't carry, but I always have to buy more than I need. Now I find myself designing projects around my surplus hardware, but it's nice when it saves me a trip. The free returns option takes the worry out of purchasing, though I try not to abuse it.
We have found that Amazon is not always the best place to shop. Some things (like a Ronstan quick-release shackle) are no less costly there than at our local West Marine, and in the case of products like a 12-oz spray can of Sailkote, more expensive on Amazon ($25 on Amazon vs $16.50 at WM). My recent purchase of a 3-D printer was 10% less at the dealer's website than any offering on Amazon.
Also,I have learned the hard way that saving money on things like off-brand shackles is not a good idea. One trip up the mast to retrieve a lost halyard was enough to cure me of that.
There is something to be said for buying from a brick-and-mortar even when it costs a bit more. In the case of WM, it's nice to have a local source for sailing hardware, so I like to support them when it makes sense. Also, they have some really great sales. I bought a nice pair of leather Sperry topsiders for $12.00, and snagged a great deal on PFD's as well.
We have found that Amazon is not always the best place to shop. Some things (like a Ronstan quick-release shackle) are no less costly there than at our local West Marine, and in the case of products like a 12-oz spray can of Sailkote, more expensive on Amazon ($25 on Amazon vs $16.50 at WM). My recent purchase of a 3-D printer was 10% less at the dealer's website than any offering on Amazon.
Also,I have learned the hard way that saving money on things like off-brand shackles is not a good idea. One trip up the mast to retrieve a lost halyard was enough to cure me of that.
There is something to be said for buying from a brick-and-mortar even when it costs a bit more. In the case of WM, it's nice to have a local source for sailing hardware, so I like to support them when it makes sense. Also, they have some really great sales. I bought a nice pair of leather Sperry topsiders for $12.00, and snagged a great deal on PFD's as well.